Interpretive Handbook

Test
8610 :
Chlordiazepoxide, Serum

Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) is a benzodiazepine widely used in the treatment of anxiety. It is also used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, as a premedication for anesthesia, in obstetrics during labor, as a muscle relaxant, and as an anticonvulsant. Toxic manifestations can include confusion, ataxia, sedation, tachycardia, hyperreflexia, and hypertension. Fatalities resulting from overdose are rare.

The reference range cited (5.0-10.0 mcg/mL) relates to chronic therapy with chlordiazepoxide. Concentrations in the range of 1.0-3.0 mcg/mL are typical for occasional, non-chronic use. Concentrations as high as 80 mcg/mL may be observed in aggressive therapy with chlordiazepoxide for treatment of delirium tremens.